Packing your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you decide to pack yourself or let us take care of it, a little planning and the right approach can make the process smooth and stress-free. Here’s our guide to help you pack efficiently, minimize disruption, and make life easier when you arrive at your new home.
The Big Packing Picture
- Make a Plan: Start with a plan for each room. Note what you’ll pack, when, and the supplies you’ll need. For large homes, aim for at least a month of packing; for smaller spaces, 2 weeks works well.
- Declutter: Let go of what you don’t need. Donate, sell, or toss items you won’t take with you—less to pack, less to move.
- Pack Essentials Separately: Leave out the items you’ll need on moving day—chargers, medications, toiletries, and a change of clothes.
- Label Everything: Write the room and items on each box. Mark fragile boxes clearly.
- Don’t Overfill Boxes: Heavy boxes are prone to accidents. Keep them manageable and stable.
- Secure Valuables: Pack important documents and valuables separately and keep them with you.
- Plan for Fragile Items: If you need custom crates for large or delicate items, plan this well ahead of moving day.
- Cut Back on Groceries: Stop buying perishable food a week before the move to reduce waste.
Gather Your Supplies
- Boxes and Bins: Estimate how many boxes you need. Plastic bins are a great eco-friendly option for easy stacking and reuse
- Packing Tools: You’ll need tape, packing paper, bubble wrap, and markers for labeling.
- Labels: Use clear, large labels or colored stickers to keep boxes organized by room.
Room-by-Room Packing Tips
Begin with rooms you use the least—guest rooms, dining rooms, or storage spaces
Combine similar items from different rooms to pack efficiently. Take photos of electronics (like TVs) to make reconnecting cables easy
Wrap glassware individually, place dishes vertically, and use towels to buffer pots and pans. Set aside a few days just for kitchen packing—it’s often the most time-consuming room
Place spillable items in sealed bags or use cling wrap under lids.
Go beyond “Kitchen” or “Bedroom.” For example, “Kitchen – Glassware, FRAGILE” or “Master Bedroom – Winter Clothes.” Number your boxes to keep track.
Storing Packed Boxes
- Start stacking boxes in the least-used spaces, like the dining room or guest room.
- Place heavy boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top. Stack them like bricks for stability.
- Keep pathways clear to avoid accidents, especially in high-traffic areas.
Unpacking Made Easy
- Furniture First: Plan where furniture will go ahead of time so movers can place it for you.
- Start with Essentials: Unpack items you’ll need right away—kitchen basics, toiletries, towels, and bedding.
- Make Beds Early: Set up beds so everyone has a place to sleep after a long day.
- Organize as You Go: Line shelves and drawers before unpacking. Break down boxes as you empty them to clear space.
- Focus on Key Rooms: Prioritize the kitchen, bedrooms, and bathrooms. The laundry room and basement can wait.
- Take Your Time: Decorate at your own pace. Hang a few family photos early to make the space feel like home.
At Neon Movers, we’re here to help—whether you need advice, supplies, or professional packing services. Moving can be a big change, but with the right strategy, it doesn’t have to be stressful.
Finished packing? Check out our Moving Day Checklist to ensure everything is set for a smooth move.
